Ukraine’s SBU Files Fresh Charges Against Ex-MP Muraev for Inciting Overthrow of Government

New Charges Brought Against Yevheniy Muraev

According to Главком: Yevheniy Muraev, a former Ukrainian lawmaker and leader of the now-banned 'Nashi' party, faces a new round of accusations from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). Dated May 6, the charges center on his systematic dissemination of Russian propaganda and calls for the violent overthrow of the government. Investigators allege that Muraev’s actions violate articles related to forcible change of the constitutional order and justification of Russia’s armed aggression against Ukraine.

This is not the first time Muraev has been targeted by Ukrainian authorities. In July 2023, he was already notified of suspicions of high treason and incitement to hatred. According to the investigation, Muraev used his Telegram channel 'Muraev' to spread pro-Russian messaging. It has also been reported that TikTok blocked two of his accounts. Currently, he is under sanctions imposed by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.

Muraev’s Whereabouts and Stated Views

Muraev left Ukraine in May 2022, crossing the border into Hungary from the Zakarpattia region. He now resides with his family in Vienna, occasionally visiting Bratislava. In his public statements, Muraev has repeatedly expressed controversial opinions about events in Ukraine, notably claiming that 'the 2014 Maidan was an unconstitutional coup' and that the war in Donbas was a 'civil war.' He has also asserted that 'all of Ukraine’s territorial losses are the result of events set in motion to benefit the United States.'

The investigation contends that Muraev’s statements served to justify Russian aggression and incite destabilization within Ukraine. The Center for Countering Disinformation has noted that Muraev has set up a backup channel that could be blocked. He remains a key figure in a criminal case on suspicion of high treason.

Muraev: 'The 2014 Maidan was an unconstitutional coup'

The latest charges against Yevheniy Muraev underscore Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to combat the information war waged by the Russian Federation. The systematic spread of pro-Russian propaganda, including calls for violent government overthrow, poses a serious threat to Ukraine’s national security. In the context of the ongoing war, such actions can have dangerous implications for the stability and integrity of the state.